In response to the worldwide Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, on 4 April 2020, the Australian Government introduced a new “COVID-19 Pandemic event” pathway under the Australian Government Endorsed Event (AGEE) stream of the Subclass 408 – Temporary Activity visa.
The aims of the new pathway are twofold:
- To provide a pathway for certain former and current temporary visa holders, who are unable to depart Australia as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, to remain in Australia lawfully; and
- To implement a measure to respond to workforce shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Applications are open only to temporary visa holders who hold a visa that is 28 days or less from ceasing to be in effect, or held a visa that is no more than 28 days from ceasing to be in effect. Applicants must also be unable to apply for the same temporary visa they hold/held or any other subclass of temporary visa other than the Subclass 408 visa.
Applicants are expected to show that that they are engaged in or have the relevant skills to undertake critical work relating to the supply of essential goods and services, including but not limited to the sectors of health, aged and disability care, agriculture, food processing and childcare.
There is presently no application fee to apply for a Subclass 408 visa under this new pathway.
If you think you meet the requirements to apply for this visa and wish to extend your stay in Australia, give us a call at 08 9228 0300 or send us an email at [email protected]. We have the expertise to conduct a thorough review of your situation and advise you of your eligibility. We will also let you know if there are any other visa options available to you.
